Interchangeable input mechanisms for control devices

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments described herein are directed toward input mechanisms, for input devices, configured to receive and removably couple to interchangeable elements. Handheld input devices applicable to some embodiments may include, without limitation, computer controllers, video game console controllers, and handheld video gaming devices. Input mechanisms applicable to various embodiments may include, for example, control sticks (e.g., joysticks or analog sticks operable by a user&#39;s finger, such as a thumbstick), buttons, switches, and directional pads. According to some embodiments, an input mechanism is provided comprising a base component. Depending on the embodiment, coupling different interchangeable elements to the base component may cause the input mechanism to vary in size, appearance, contour, material, or features provided by the input mechanism.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57 andshould be considered a part of this specification.

FIELD

The systems and methods described herein relate to input devices and,more particularly, some embodiments relate to customizable input deviceshaving interchangeable components.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

The use of specially configured and customized human input devices, suchas video game controllers, keyboards, mice, and trackpads, have ahistory of use in controlling various devices in many industries.Generally, human input devices (hereafter, simply referred to as “inputdevices”) are configured or customized to meet the needs or preferencesof an individual user, often with respect to particular context,application or environment of use. Input devices typically include oneor more input mechanisms adapted to receive an input (e.g., physicalinput) from a user and to translate the input into a correspondingoutput that may be electrical or mechanical in nature. For instance, anelectronic input device, such as a digital handheld controller that iscoupled to a processor-based system may receive a physical input from auser (e.g., via an input mechanism) and translate the physical inputinto a corresponding electrical signal readable by the digital inputdevice.

In the realm of video game consoles (e.g., handheld or other video gameconsoles) and other video game processor-based systems (e.g., PDAs,laptops, smartphones, etc.), specially configured or customized inputdevices may include handheld game controllers (e.g., motion-enabled andotherwise), joysticks, analog sticks, digital sticks, directional pads,steering wheels, musical instrument controllers, pads (e.g., dancepads), and the like. Typically, the special configuration orcustomization of input devices include user preferences relating toergonomics of the input device, aesthetics of the input device,assignment of buttons or input mechanisms, and the specific application(e.g., first-person shooter video game) with which the input device isbeing used.

SUMMARY

Various embodiments of the invention(s) described herein are directedtoward input mechanisms for input devices and, more specifically, towardinput mechanisms comprising interchangeable elements that enable theinput mechanism to be customized/reconfigured according to a user'spreferences and/or based on the input mechanism's context of use. Inputdevices applicable to some embodiments may include, without limitation,computer controllers, video game console controllers, and handheld videogaming devices (e.g., handheld video game consoles, or videogame-enabled mobile devices). Other input devices may include those usedin commercial or industrial contexts/environments, such as input devicesused to control for heavy machinery (e.g., tractors, cranes, etc.).Depending on the embodiment, input mechanisms may take various formsincluding, for example, control sticks (e.g., joysticks, digital sticks,or analog sticks such as thumbsticks, which are operable by a user'sfinger), buttons, switches, and directional pads. For some embodiments,a button may be an electronic button, a mechanical button, a trigger, ashoulder button, or a bumper button; a switch may be a rocker switch, aflip switch, or a slide switch; and a directional pad may be a rounddirectional pad or a plus-shaped directional pad. Additionally, theinput mechanisms may be digital or analog in nature, and may vary insize, appearance, contour, and material based on the embodiment.

According to various embodiments, an input mechanism (e.g., directionalpad input mechanism, or thumbstick input mechanism) is provided,configured to be integrated into an input device (e.g., input deviceembedded in a handheld video gaming console, or a video gamecontroller), and having an interchangeable element (e.g., directionalpad button, or thumbstick element) removably coupled to a base componentof the input mechanism (e.g., at designated coupling point disposed onthe base component, such as a socket). The interchangeable element maybe coupled to the base component such that the interchangeable elementcan be decoupled from the input mechanism and optionally replaced byanother interchangeable element, which may be similar or different innature (e.g., possibly an element that is differs in certain aspect incomparison to the element being replaced). Certain embodiment mayinclude an input device incorporating such input mechanisms as thosedisclosed herein.

According to one embodiment, an input mechanism may comprise: a basecomponent configured to couple to the input device and comprising acoupling mechanism; and a first interchangeable element configured toreleasably attach to the coupling mechanism. The first interchangeableelement may be configured to receive, or assist the input mechanism inreceiving, an input from a user, ideally, when the first interchangeableelement is coupled to the base component. Additionally, the couplingmechanism may be configured to couple the first interchangeable elementto the base component such that the first interchangeable element can bedecoupled from the base component and a second interchangeable elementcan be coupled to the base component in place of the firstinterchangeable element.

Depending on the embodiment, the first interchangeable element and thesecond interchangeable element differ in appearance, material, physicaldimension, shape, or input feature provided. For example, the firstinterchangeable element may comprise a concave top surface or a convextop contact surface (e.g., adapted to the contour of a user'sfingertip). In another example, the first interchangeable element mayhave spherical or semi-spherical shape, which may increase accessibilityof the input mechanism.

For some embodiments, the base component may be configured to translatethe input to a corresponding input instruction provided to the inputdevice. For instance, the base component of an input mechanism mayinclude electrical components (e.g., potentiometers, switches, etc.)operable in translating a physical input (e.g., receive a control stickof the input mechanism) into a corresponding electrical signal (e.g.,digital or analog signal that is provided to the input device to whichthe input mechanism is coupled).

For various embodiments, the input mechanism may comprise a joystick, ananalog stick, a digital stick or a directional pad. The input mechanismof some embodiments may comprise a button or a switch. Additionally, forsome embodiments, the first interchangeable element may comprise acontrol stick optimized for use by an appendage of the user's hand(e.g., thumbstick optimized for control by a user's thumb). For example,the control stick may comprise a cradle configured to receive andsupport the appendage of the user's hand (e.g., thumb or index finger).

For some embodiments, the coupling mechanism may comprise a socketconfigured to receive a plug disposed on the first interchangeableelement. Alternatively, the coupling mechanism may comprise a plugconfigured to be received by a socket disposed on the firstinterchangeable element. Further, for some embodiments, the couplingmechanism may comprise an opening configured to reduce or prevent thelikelihood of a vacuum forming between the first interchangeable elementand the base component as the two are decoupled. By this feature,various embodiments can make it easier for a user to decouple the firstinterchangeable element from the base component when the user choses toswap the first interchangeable element for another interchangeableelement. The coupling mechanism, for various embodiments, may comprise afastener or the coupling mechanism is friction-based. For example, beadsmay be disposed on a coupling portion of the first interchangeableelement such that the beads contribute to the adhesion between thecoupling portion and the base component to which it is coupled.

In certain embodiments, the coupling mechanism may comprise a guideconfigured to align the first interchangeable element with the basecomponent during coupling (e.g., as the first interchangeable element isbeing coupled to the base component). Further, for some embodiments, theguide may be further configured to align the first interchangeableelement in a first orientation with respect to the base component. Forexample, once the first interchangeable element has been coupled to thebase component, the guide may cause the first interchangeable element toalign in certain direction with respect to the base component.

Other features and aspects of the systems, methods and apparatusesdescribed herein will become apparent from the following detaileddescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, whichillustrate, by way of example, features in accordance with variousembodiments. The summary is not intended to limit the scope of theinvention(s), which is defined solely by the claims attached hereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more various embodiments described herein are done so in detailwith reference to the following figures. The drawings are provided forpurposes of illustration only and merely depict typical or embodiments.These drawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding ofvarious embodiments and shall not be considered limiting of the breadth,scope, or applicability of embodiments. It should be noted that forclarity and ease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily madeto scale.

Some of the figures included herein illustrate various embodiments ofthe invention(s) from different viewing angles. Although theaccompanying descriptive text may refer to such views as “top,” “bottom”or “side” views, such references are merely descriptive and do not implyor require that the invention(s) be implemented or used in a particularspatial orientation unless explicitly stated otherwise.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a generalized version of a gamingsystem as one example of an environment with which various embodimentscan be implemented.

FIG. 2 is a diagram providing a cross-sectional view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element decoupledfrom a base component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a diagram providing a cross-sectional view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element coupled to abase component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a diagram providing a top-perspective view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element decoupledfrom a base component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram providing a cross-sectional view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element coupled to abase component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams providing a side view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element coupled abase component in accordance with various embodiments, and a cutawayview of the base component.

FIG. 7 is a diagram providing a bottom-perspective view of an exampleinput mechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element coupledto a base component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a diagram providing a bottom-perspective view of an examplethumbstick interchangeable element in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a diagram providing a cross-sectional view of an example inputmechanism comprising an interchangeable thumbstick element coupled to abase component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 10 depicts example configurations for an input mechanism comprisinga common base component coupled to different interchangeable thumbstickelements in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 11 depicts an example video game controller comprising at least oneinput mechanism that comprises an interchangeable thumbstick elementcoupled to a base component in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 12 depicts an example video game controller comprising an inputmechanism that includes a base component configured to receive aninterchangeable element in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 13 depicts example configurations for an input mechanism, coupledto a video game controller, comprising a common base component coupledto different interchangeable thumbstick elements in accordance withvarious embodiments.

FIGS. 14-16 depict example video game controllers comprising inputmechanisms that comprise base components coupled to differentinterchangeable thumbstick elements in accordance with variousembodiments.

The figures are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit variousembodiments to the precise form disclosed. It should be understood thatvarious embodiments can be practiced with modification and alteration,and that embodiments may be limited only by the claims and theequivalents thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments described herein are directed toward inputmechanisms for input devices (e.g., handheld input devices), configuredto receive and removably couple to interchangeable elements. Inputdevices, including handheld input devices, applicable to someembodiments may include, without limitation, computer controllers, videogame controllers, and handheld video gaming devices. Input mechanismsapplicable to various embodiments may include, for example, controlsticks (e.g., joysticks or analog sticks operable by a user's finger,such as a thumbstick), buttons, switches, and directional pads.According to some embodiments, an input mechanism is provided comprisinga base component, and an interchangeable element configured to removablycouple to the base component. Depending on the embodiment, couplingdifferent interchangeable elements to the base component may cause theinput mechanism to vary in size, appearance, contour, shape, texture, ormaterial, and may vary or alter the features provided by the inputmechanism.

According to various embodiments, an input mechanism, such asdirectional pad input mechanism, or thumbstick input mechanism, isprovided. The input mechanism may be configured to be integrated into ahandheld control device, such as handheld video gaming console or avideo game or computer controller. Additionally, the input mechanism mayhave an interchangeable input element, such as a directional pad buttonor a thumbstick element, that is removably coupled to the inputmechanism, possibly at designated coupling point disposed on the inputmechanism (e.g., at a socket). The interchangeable element may becoupled to the input mechanism such that the interchangeable element canbe decoupled from the input mechanism and optionally replaced by anotherinterchangeable element similar or different in nature. For example, insome embodiments, the interchangeable element can be an element that isdiffers in one or more aspects in comparison to the element beingreplaced. Certain embodiments may include a handheld control deviceincorporating such input mechanisms as those disclosed herein.

The base component may comprise mechanical and/or electronic componentsthat facilitate generation of or affect control instructions or signalsfrom the input mechanism to the input device to which it the inputmechanism is coupled. The base component can include, for example, apotentiometer or encoder for a thumbstick or joystick, a switch for abutton, a series of switches for a D-pad, or other base component.

The interchangeable element may couple to the base component at acoupling point, which may be disposed on or extend through an exteriorsurface of the base component. Depending on the embodiment, the basecomponent may be an integrated component of an input device. As part ofthe coupling mechanism, the coupling point may comprise anattachment/retention mechanism utilizing one or more differentmethodologies to attach the interchangeable element to, and allowdetachment of the interchangeable element from, the base component.There are a number of mechanisms that can be used to allow releasableattachment. Examples of attachment/retention mechanisms may include, forinstance, friction based mechanisms, socket and plug mechanisms, orfasteners (e.g., screws, clasps, tabs, clips, etc.).

Through the use of certain embodiments, an input device, such as a videogame controller, may be reconfigured or customized for various purposes.One such purpose is to suit a user's (e.g., gamer's) preferences withrespect to use, feel, appearance, features or performance of the inputdevice. A user may, for instance, interchange an element of an inputmechanism to adjust the shape/contour, dimensions, look, feel, material,or performance of one or more the input mechanism elements. Take forinstance a thumbstick element coupled to a thumbstick input mechanismsof a video game console controller. A user may change the contour/shapeof the thumbstick element of the thumbstick input mechanism byinterchanging/replacing a concave thumbstick element with a convexthumbstick element; change the dimensions by interchanging/replacing athumbstick element of given length with a taller or shorter thumbstickelement; change the look of the thumbstick element byinterchanging/replacing an opaque thumbstick element of one color (e.g.,red) with a semi-translucent thumbstick element of another color (e.g.,green); or change the feel by interchanging/replacing a smooth, plasticthumbstick element for a thumbstick element including a surface that hasan enhanced grip for finger (e.g., covered by an elastomer, neoprene, ortextured material).

Before describing various embodiments in detail, it is useful todescribe a few example environments with which certain embodiments canbe implemented. One such example is that of a computing system, such asa gaming system, used by one or more participants, such as video gameplayers (gamers), to participate in a group activity, such as playing acomputer game or video game.

FIG. 1 illustrates a generalized version of a gaming system 100 as oneexample of an environment with which various embodiments can utilized orimplemented. Referring now to FIG. 1 , the example gaming systemincludes a gaming console 102, a monitor 106, a dance pad gamecontroller 110, and a musical-instrument game controller 112. Both dancepad game controller 110 and musical-instrument game controller 112 areprovided in this example in addition to handheld game controller 104.The illustrated example also includes an interface to a communicationmedium or communication network 108 such as, for example, the Internetor other communication channel. Both the handheld game controller 104and the musical-instrument game controller 112 are example of handheldcontrol device with which various embodiments described herein may beutilized.

In one environment, gaming console 102 might be implemented as aPlayStation®, Xbox360®, Wii® or other like gaming console. In anotherimplementation, gaming console 102 might be implemented as a personalcomputer or other like computing device. A gaming console 102 wouldtypically include a processor or other computing device providing theability to allow gaming applications, which are typically softwareapplications, to be run thereon. A gaming application might beinstalled, for example, through the use of CD ROM drives, DVD drives,Ethernet or WiFi download, or other storage medium or communicationsinterfaces. Typically a gaming console 102 can be analogized to acomputer system used to run the gaming software. In another environment,the gaming console 102 might be implemented as a personal computer,laptop, tablet, or other computing device.

A monitor 106 or other display is typically provided to allow the gamingenvironment to be displayed to the gamer during game play. Monitor 106can also be used to display menus and other features to the gamer toenhance the game play environment. Various interfaces might be providedbetween gaming console 102 and monitor 106 to provide the proper videosignal to drive monitor 106. For example, RGB, NTSC, VGA, and othersignal types or specifications can be used to provide communicationsbetween gaming console 102 and monitor 106. In the alternative, a videoprojector or other viewing mechanism (not shown) can be utilized inplace of the monitor 106 to provide similarity display functionality.

As illustrated, speakers can also be provided, separately or withmonitor 106, to provide audible information to the gamer during gameplay and during set up. For example, in one embodiment, monitor 106might be implemented as a television with built in speakers that isconnected to the gaming console via a coaxial or other audio and videoinput.

Also illustrated in the example environment is handheld gamingcontroller 104 that can be used to allow gamers to provide input to theconsole and to the game software as well as to receive feedback from theconsole and game software during set up and game play. As described inthe background section, handheld gaming controller 104 can include, forexample, X, Y, A, B buttons, triggers, analog joysticks, key pads, andother devices to allow the user to provide input to the game. Thus byactuating the various buttons, switches or joysticks, the gamer cancontrol the operation of the game or control characters or vehicles inthe game. The interface between gaming console 102 and handheld gamingcontroller 104, dance pad game controller 110, and musical-instrumentgame controller 112 might be either a wired and/or wireless interface,as may be desired. Likewise, throughout this document, references tocommunication or signal interfaces can be implemented using wired orwireless interfaces, unless otherwise specified.

Also illustrated in the example of FIG. 1 is a communications connectionto a network 108. For example, a user may wish to connect the gamingconsole 102 to the Internet or other network or communication mediumwhereby game information can be downloaded from or uploaded to variouswebsites, online services such as Xbox Live™, or other entities orservices. In addition, through a communication medium 108, gamers mightcompete amongst other gamers at their gaming systems 100, even if suchother gamers at remote or distant locations. Note that depending on thegaming environment, remote gaming systems 100 might or might not havesimilar configurations to one another.

Although not depicted, game system 100 can have feedback devices, orstimulus, that can be used to provide sensory feedback from the gamingconsole to the user. The game system 100 can also have biosensorsallowing for biological information (e.g., biometrics) regarding theuser to be provided to the console. Both the biosensors and feedbackdevices can communicate to the gaming console 102 via a separatecommunication path from the controllers 104, 110, and 112. For example,feedback devices can communicate through the USB ports or likecommunication ports as those found on gaming consoles such as the XBOX360®, PlayStation® and personal computing system. Biosensors andfeedback devices can also be configured to connect through ports ofhandheld gaming consoles 102, often referred to as expansion ports. As afurther example, biosensors and feedback devices can communicate withgaming consoles 102 via wireless communication interfaces.

In yet another embodiment, feedback devices and biosensors cancommunicate with the gaming console via a communication path through thehandheld gaming controller 104. For example, the communicationcontroller can be equipped with another communication interface and thebiosensors, feedback devices, or both are communicatively coupled(whether hard wired or wirelessly) to the handheld gaming controller104. As one specific example of this case, a biosensor and feedbackdevice can be configured for communicative coupling to a Nintendo® Wii®controller via the Wii controller's Wii Nunchuck pass-through port. Asthese examples serve to illustrate, there are a number of mechanisms bywhich a biosensor or feedback device can be interfaced to a controlleror to the gaming console.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that variousembodiments described herein may be used in conjunction with video gamecontrollers, such as controllers 104 and 112, and with handheld videogaming device that share features similar to those of the game system100 and its various devices (e.g., handheld gaming controller 104).

FIG. 2 provides a cross-sectional view of an example input mechanism 200in accordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods describedherein. Referring now to FIG. 2 , this example includes aninterchangeable thumbstick element 202 decoupled from a base component204. As shown, the interchangeable element 202 of FIG. 2 is a thumbstickelement having a concave surface 206 (e.g., button head), which isgenerally configured to come in contact with a user's finger (e.g.,thumb tip) when in use by the user. For some embodiments, theinterchangeable thumbstick element 202 is considered to have a shortshaft in comparison to other interchangeable thumbstick elements.

To facilitate removable coupling between the interchangeable thumbstickelement 202 and the base component 204, the interchangeable thumbstickelement 202 includes a socket 208 configured to receive a plug 210embedded in the base component 204. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that for some embodiments, the socket 208 may be embedded inthe base component 205 while the thumbstick element 202 includes theplug 210. The dimensions of the socket and the plug are chosen such thatelement 202 can be releasably attached to base 204. For example, in oneembodiment, the cross-sectional diameter of plug 210 and the diameter ofsocket 208 are sized such that plug 210 fits snugly into socket 208. Inother embodiments, the sidewalls of socket 208 are dimensioned such thatthey provide a snug fit with the gap around plug 210. Preferably, thedimensions are such that the device fits snugly enough to not fall offor otherwise become easily dislodged by normal game play. On the otherhand, the dimensions are also chosen so that element 202 can beseparated from base 204 with the application of a pulling force appliedby the user so as to allow for interchangeability. Ideally, the forcerequired to separate the components is no greater than the amount offorce that would result in breakage or destruction of either or bothcomponents.

A user may couple the interchangeable thumbstick element 202 with thebase component 204 by inserting the plug 210 into the socket 208 usingreasonable force. For example, the user may push the interchangeablethumbstick element 202 and the base component 204 together until theyare seated. The components may also be decoupled using reasonable force.For example, the user pulls the element 202 from base 104 to remove theelement 202 from the base 204, in one embodiment, the force required toseparate element 202 from base 104 is the force that can be exerted byan average teenager, or by an average adult. In another embodiment, theforce required to separate element 202 from base 104 is the force thatcan be exerted by a typical five-year old. In other embodiments, toavoid choking hazards, the force required to remove the element 202 fromthe base 204 is greater than that force that a young child is able toapply (such as, for example, the force that can be applied by an average3 or 4 year old). As would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart after reading this description, the components can be dimensioned orotherwise configured to require other levels of force to separate thecomponents.

FIG. 3 provides a cross-sectional view of the example input mechanism200 with the interchangeable thumbstick element 202 and the basecomponent 204 in a coupled configuration.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that attachment mechanismsother than sockets and plugs may be utilized to removably couple theinterchangeable element 202 to the base component 204. Additionally,those skilled in the art will understand that for some embodiments, theattachment mechanism employed may utilize or require one or more toolsto facilitate attachment or detachment of the interchangeable element202 and the base component 204.

FIG. 4 provides a top-perspective view of an example input mechanism 400in accordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods describedherein. The example illustrated in FIG. 4 comprises an interchangeablethumbstick 402 element decoupled from a base component 404. As shown, inthis example the interchangeable element 402 is a thumbstick elementhaving a convex contact surface 406, which is generally configured tocome in contact with a user's finger (e.g., thumb tip) when in use bythe user. For some embodiments, the interchangeable thumbstick element402 is considered to have a tall shaft in comparison to otherinterchangeable thumbstick elements. To facilitate removable couplingbetween the interchangeable element 402 and the base component 404, theinterchangeable element 402 includes socket 408 configured to receive aplug 412 embedded into the base component 404. A user may couple theinterchangeable thumbstick element 402 with the base component 404 byinserting the plug 412 into the socket 408 using reasonable force (e.g.,pushing the interchangeable thumbstick element 402 and the basecomponent 404 until they snap together). FIG. 5 provides across-sectional view of the example thumbstick input mechanism 400 oncethe interchangeable thumbstick element 402 and the base component 404are coupled together. To further secure the coupling between the socket408 and the plug 412, the socket walls may further include frictionbeads 410, configured to increase adhesion between the socket 408 wallsand the plug 412 walls.

In the illustrated example, friction beads 410 are longitudinal bars orridges projecting from the surface of the outer wall of socket 408.These friction beads 410 provide additional friction to maintain thereleasable connection between base 404 and element 402. Althoughfriction beads 410 in this example are illustrated as longitudinal barsextending substantially axially along the surface, friction beads 410can be provided in other shapes and configurations. For example,friction beads 410 can be bars or protuberances aligned in otherdirections such as diagonally along the surface, helically around thesurface or as latitudinal rings about the circumference of the outersurface of the socket wall. As another example, friction beads 410, canbe provided in patterns such as sinusoidal, circular, or any otherpattern. Additionally, friction beads 410 can be other than the linearexamples described above. For example, friction beads 410 can be anypattern of shapes or protuberances about the surface to provide thedesired amount of friction to allow releasable attachment with a desiredlevel of force. For example, a pattern of protruding hemispheres,pyramids, cubics, or various polyhedral or other shapes. Additionally,although illustrated on outer surface of socket 408 wall, friction beads410 can be provided on any or all of the various mating surfaces of theplug and socket.

In addition to or in place of friction beads 410, various surfacematerials, surface treatments or other imparted surface properties canbe used to affect the amount of friction presented by the coupling. Forexample, high coefficient-of-friction materials can be used for any orall of the various mating surfaces of the plug and socket. Such surfacescan be provided, for example, by using rough or abraded surfaces, byusing polymeric or rubber-like surface materials or other materialsproviding a desired coefficient of friction.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in addition to frictionbeads or friction surfaces, other methods of adhesion may be utilized tosecure the socket 408 to the plug 412. Likewise, other attachmentmechanisms other than sockets and plugs may be utilized in removablycoupling the interchangeable element to the base component. For example,barbs, snap-tabs, click lock or other ‘snap-fit’ components could beused to provide a releasable coupling. As further examples, threadedconnectors can be used for screw on/off releasable connection, as cantwist & lock fastening mechanisms of various configurations.

Decoupling the interchangeable element from the base may involve usingreasonable force to detach the components (e.g., in the example of FIG.4 , pulling the interchangeable thumbstick element 402 and the basecomponent 404 away from each other). As described above, the couplingmechanism can be chosen and implemented to provide the requisite levelof force for decoupling. For example, in some embodiments it would beundesirable to have the element decouple with the application of suchsmall forces that the element detaches during normal use or in unwantedcircumstances. As a further example, in a gaming application it would beundesirable for the interchangeable element to detach from the basecomponent as a result of forces imparted on the assembly during normalgame play. Likewise, it may be undesirable for the interchangeableelement to be capable of being detached from the base component by asmall child especially in applications where the detachable elementpresents a choking hazard.

For some embodiments, the base component 404 and the plug 412 aresimilar to that of base 204, such that the base component 404 cancompatibly receive and couple to either the convex thumbstick element402 of FIG. 4 or the concave thumbstick element 202 of FIG. 2 (based onuser preference). More importantly, in various embodiments one or morebase components on a device or controller use a common couplinginterface with each other. Likewise, multiple interchangeable elementsuse a common coupling interface complementary to the coupling interfaceon the base(s). In this manner, each of these base components can accepteach of the compatible interchangeable elements, allowing flexibility ofcustomization.

FIG. 6A provides a side view of an example input mechanism 600, inaccordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods describedherein. In the illustrated example, input mechanism 600 includes aninterchangeable element 602 and a base component 604. In this example,interchangeable element 602 is a thumbstick, although other elementscould be used. A coupling mechanism may be included with the basecomponent 604 to enable the thumbstick interchangeable element 602 tocouple to the base component 604. For some embodiments, the couplingmechanism may comprise a socket configured to receive a plug disposed onthe thumbstick interchangeable element 602, or the coupling mechanismmay comprise a plug configured to be received by a socket disposed onthe thumbstick interchangeable element 602. FIG. 6B provides a cutawayview of what the base component 604 may look like after a plug 606 isjoined to a socket 608, thereby coupling the thumbstick interchangeableelement 602 to the base component 604.

According to some embodiments, the socket 608 may be disposed on thethumbstick interchangeable element 602 while the plug 606 may bedisposed on the base component 604. As shown in FIG. 6A, the plug 606may be embedded into the outer surface of the base component 604.Alternatively, the socket 608 may be disposed on the base component 604while the plug 606 may be disposed on the thumbstick interchangeableelement 602. Though FIG. 6B illustrates the use of plug and socketelements in coupling the interchangeable element 602 to the basecomponent 604, some embodiments may utilize alternative elements infacilitate the coupling between the interchangeable element 602 to thebase component 604.

As depicted in FIG. 6B, the base component 604 in some embodiments mayinclude one or more openings 610 configured to allow the passage of airas the thumbstick interchangeable element 602 is coupled to anddecoupled from the base component 604. The openings 610 may be disposedat a coupling point where the base component 604 joins with thethumbstick interchangeable element 602, as shown in FIG. 6B, or may bedisposed at other locations that can facilitate passage of air betweenthe thumbstick interchangeable element 602 and the base component 604.

For some embodiments, the openings 610 prevent or reduce the likelihoodof a vacuum forming between the thumbstick interchangeable element 602and the base component 604 as the two are decoupled. This could behelpful for some embodiments where the formation of a vacuum between thethumbstick interchangeable element 602 and the base component 604 wouldotherwise make decoupling of the two more difficult. In someembodiments, where a vacuum is utilized to couple the thumbstickinterchangeable element 602 to the base component 604, such opening maybe absent from the base component 604 and/or the thumbstickinterchangeable element.

FIG. 7 provides a bottom-perspective view of an example input mechanism700 comprising an interchangeable element 706 coupled to a basecomponent 702 in accordance with one embodiment of the systems andmethods described herein. FIG. 7 depicts an input mechanism 700 from theperspective of the underside of the base component 702. In theillustrated example, element 706 is a thumbstick element, however otherinterchangeable elements could also be used. As shown in the illustratedexample, the base component 702 for some embodiments may include one ormore openings 704, which like the openings 610 of FIG. 6 , may beconfigured to allow the passage of air as the interchangeable element706 is coupled to and decoupled from the base component 702. As notedabove, such openings may prevent the buildup of pressure betweeninterchangeable element 706 and the base component 702 during coupling.Likewise, one or more openings can help to avoid or reduce thelikelihood of a vacuum forming between the interchangeable element 706and the base component 702 as the two are decoupled.

The openings 704 may be further configured to engage an attachmentmechanism to secure the interchangeable element 706 and the basecomponent 702. For example, the openings 704 may be adapted to receiveand engage structural features disposed on a coupling member of theinterchangeable element 706 to facilitate releasable attachment of thecomponents. By way of further example, spring tabs extending frominterchangeable element 706 can be configured to engage with a surfaceof openings 704 to retain the components in a connected configuration.Likewise, in a twist-lock configuration, slots can be provided in thebase 702 to engage posts on interchangeable element 706.

In various embodiments, complementary elements of a locking mechanismcan be disposed on the interchangeable element 706 and the basecomponent 702. For instance, one or more tabs may be disposed on theinterchangeable element 706, and the tabs may be configured to engageand be received by the openings 704 disposed on the base component 702.Alternatively, in various embodiments, the openings 704 may be disposedon the interchangeable element 706 and the tabs may be disposed on theon the base component 702.

FIG. 8 providing a bottom-perspective view of an example thumbstickinterchangeable element 800 in accordance with one embodiment of thesystems and methods described herein. In this example, thumbstickinterchangeable element 800 comprises a thumbstick contact surface 806and a shaft including a socket 810. The socket 810 includes structuralprotrusions 802 (e.g., tabs) disposed along the outer rim at one end ofthe socket 810, and beads 804 disposed along the shaft of the socket810. As described herein, the structural protrusions 802 may be utilizedby an attachment mechanism configured to secure the example thumbstickinterchangeable element 800 to a compatible base component (not shown).To receive and releasably secure the structural protrusions 802 to acompatible base component, the base component may be configured toinclude openings/receptors that complement the structural protrusions,possibly in the form of through holes. As also described herein, thebeads 804 may be disposed on the socket 810 of the first interchangeableelement, such that the beads 804 contribute to the adhesion between thesocket 810 and the plug of the base component to which it is coupled.Though FIG. 8 depicts an interchangeable element 800 as a thumbstick,the interchangeable element 800 may comprise other forms of inputelements including, without limitation, joysticks, buttons, switches,and the like.

For example, FIG. 9 provides a cross-sectional view of an examplethumbstick input mechanism 900, in accordance with some embodiments,comprising a based component 902, the plug 904, and the thumbstickinterchangeable element 800 of FIG. 8 , coupled to the base component902. As shown in FIG. 9 , the structural protrusions 802 disposed on thethumbstick interchangeable element 800 allow the thumbstickinterchangeable element 800 to secure itself to the base component 902.For example, the base component 902 may include one or moreopenings/receptors 906 configured to receive and engage the structuralprotrusions 802 of the thumbstick interchangeable element 800, therebyallowing the thumbstick interchangeable element 800 to be releasablycoupled and secured to the base component 902. The openings/receptors906 may be disposed in outer walls 908 of the opening where the basecomponent 902 receives the socket 810 and structural protrusions 802 ofelement 800.

According to the some embodiments, the base component 902, in turn, maybe coupled to mechanical and/or electronic components that translate themovement of the thumbstick input mechanism to input control informationfor a handheld control device.

FIG. 10 provides example configurations 1000 of various input mechanismsin accordance with one embodiment of the systems and methods describedherein. In the examples illustrated, each of the configurations 1000 maycomprise a common base component 1002 coupled to a differentinterchangeable thumbstick element (1004 a-j) in accordance with variousembodiments. As shown in FIG. 10 , the interchangeable thumbstickelements 1004 a-j may vary in size, shape, or dimensions. Those skilledin the art will appreciate that elements 1004 a-j do not necessarilyhave to be thumbsticks but, rather, could function as other forms ofinput elements including, without limitation, joysticks, buttons,switches and the like. Those skilled in the art will also appreciatethat the interchangeable thumbstick elements 1004 a-j may vary in theirouter materials, color, or transparency.

For instance, one or more of the interchangeable thumbstick elements1004 a-j may include an exterior surface comprising an elastomer,neoprene, or textured material, which can enhance grip for a user'sfinger. Using one or more of the input mechanism configurations 1000with an input device may enable or otherwise enhance a particular user'sability to provide physical input to the input device. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that for some embodiments, the interchangeablethumbstick elements may comprise mechanical components that enable theinput mechanism to provide additional features (e.g., input features orcomfort-related features) to the user. For instance, a giveninterchangeable thumbstick element may include a button the thumbstick,or the thumbstick to be multi-jointed (e.g., easier accessibility orgreater range of motion). Those skilled in the art will also appreciatethat for various embodiments, an interchangeable element may compriseone or more coupling features that enable the interchangeable element tocouple to input mechanisms of different input devices. For example, theinterchangeable element may be configured to couple with an inputmechanism of a Sony® Playstation® input device and be configured tocouple with an input mechanism of a Microsoft® XBOX 360® input device.

FIG. 11 provides an example video game controller 1100, in accordancewith various embodiments, comprising at least one input mechanism 1102,1104 or 1106 that comprises an interchangeable thumbstick elementcoupled to a base component. For example, as shown in FIG. 12 , anexample video game controller 1200 comprises an input mechanism 1202that includes a base component 1204 configured and ready to receive acompatible interchangeable element. As also shown, the base component1204 may comprise a plug component configured to couple with a socket ofthe compatible interchangeable element.

FIG. 13 depicts different configurations of the input mechanism 1202comprising the base component 1204 and different interchangeableelements 1300 a-h. As shown in FIG. 13 , for some embodiments, aninterchangeable element may include structural features that cause theinterchangeable element to resemble objects that aesthetically pleasethe user. For instance, the interchangeable thumbstick element 1300 h isconfigured to resemble a skull and once coupled to the base component1204, causes the video game controller 1100 to appear as if the skull ismounted to the controller.

FIGS. 14-16 provide example video game controllers 1400, 1500, and 1600,in accordance with various embodiments, comprising input mechanisms thatcomprise base components coupled to different interchangeable thumbstickelements. In particular, each of the video game controllers 1400, 1500,and 1600 as shown comprises two input mechanisms having differentinterchangeable elements in accordance with some embodiments. By usingsuch embodiments, users can customize different input mechanisms of agiven video game controllers 1400, 1500, or 1600 with dissimilarinterchangeable elements that provide comfort, ergonomics, or enhancedcontrollability to a given user.

While various embodiments have been described above with respect tohandheld video gaming device, it should be understood that they havebeen presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Those ofordinary skill in the art would appreciate that some embodiments mayinclude other handheld control device comprising having inputmechanisms, and may include handheld control devices used in non-gamingcontexts/environments (e.g., control of unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs],unmanned ground vehicles, or remote control [R/C] vehicles).

Likewise, the various diagrams may depict an example architectural orother configuration for the invention(s), which is done to aid inunderstanding the features and functionality that can be included in theinvention(s). The invention(s) are not restricted to the illustratedexample architectures or configurations, but the desired features can beimplemented using a variety of alternative architectures andconfigurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the arthow alternative functional, logical or physical partitioning andconfigurations can be implemented to implement the desired features ofthe present invention(s). In addition, a multitude of differentconstituent module names other than those depicted herein can be appliedto the various partitions. Additionally, with regard to flow diagrams,operational descriptions and method claims, the order in which the stepsare presented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments beimplemented to perform the recited functionality in the same orderunless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the inventions are described above in terms of various exampleembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the inventions(s), whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention(s) should not be limited by any of the above-described exampleembodiments.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide example instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent.

1. (canceled)
 2. A video game controller, comprising: a controller body;and a pair of thumbsticks movably coupled to the controller body, atleast one of the pair of thumbsticks being interchangeable andcomprising a head having a domed shape with a textured proximal contactsurface for grip by a user's finger, a monolithic shaft that is attachedto the head and forms a single piece with the head, the shaft definingat least a portion of an outer surface of the thumbstick and having alength that extends distally from an underside of the head, the headhaving a greater width than the shaft, and a base attached to the shaftso that at least a portion of the shaft is interposed between the headand the base such that said at least a portion of the shaft is above thebase such that the portion of the shaft is above the base, the shaftdefining at least a portion of a length between the head and the base,the base having a curved dome portion and a plug that extends under atleast a portion of the dome portion, the plug having a bore that extendsto a distal opening of the plug, the base component configured to couplevia the bore to an input device inside the controller body to therebyintegrate the thumbstick in the controller body so that movement of thethumbstick is translated via the input device into one or more inputcontrol signals, wherein at least a portion of the thumbstick isreplaceable to vary the length of the shaft to thereby vary a height ofthe thumbstick for the same head shape or size.
 3. The video gamecontroller of claim 2, wherein the base couples to an input deviceinside the controller body so that movement of the thumbstick istranslated by a potentiometer into one or more input control signals viathe input device.
 4. The video game controller of claim 2, wherein atleast a portion of the thumbstick is replaceable to vary a color of thethumbstick between at least two different colors.
 5. The video gamecontroller of claim 2, further comprising a directional pad spaced apartfrom the pair of thumbsticks.
 6. The video game controller of claim 5,wherein the directional pad is at least partially disposed between thepair of thumbsticks.
 7. The video game controller of claim 5, furthercomprising a directional pad button removably coupleable to thedirectional pad.
 8. A video game controller, comprising: a controllerbody; and one or more thumbsticks movably coupled to the controllerbody, the one or more thumbsticks comprising a head at a proximal end ofthe thumbstick, a monolithic shaft that is attached to the head andforms a single piece with the head, the shaft defining at least aportion of an outer surface of the thumbstick and having a length thatextends distally from an underside of the head, the head having agreater width than the shaft, and a base attached to the shaft so thatat least a portion of the shaft is interposed between the head and thebase such that said at least a portion of the shaft is above the basesuch that the portion of the shaft is above the base, the shaft definingat least a portion of a length between the head and the base, at least aportion of the base defining a dome portion, the base having a plug thatextends under at least a portion of the dome portion, the plug having abore that extends to a distal opening of the plug, the base componentconfigured to couple via the bore to an input device inside thecontroller body to thereby integrate the thumbstick in the controllerbody so that movement of the thumbstick is translated via the inputdevice into one or more input control signals, wherein at least aportion of the one or more thumbsticks is replaceable to vary the lengthof the shaft to thereby vary a height of the one or more thumbsticks forthe same head shape or size.
 9. The video game controller of claim 8,wherein the base is configured to couple to an input device inside thecontroller body so that movement of the thumbstick is translated by apotentiometer into one or more input control signals via the inputdevice.
 10. The video game controller of claim 8, wherein at least aportion of the one or more thumbsticks is replaceable to vary a color ofthe one or more thumbsticks between at least two different colors. 11.The video game controller of claim 8, wherein the head has a domed shapewith a textured proximal contact surface for grip by a user's finger.12. The video game controller of claim 8, further comprising adirectional pad spaced apart from the one or more thumbstick.
 13. Thevideo game controller of claim 12, further comprising a directional padbutton removably coupleable to the directional pad.
 14. A video gamecontroller kit, comprising: a video game controller unit comprising oneor more thumbsticks, a controller body, at least one of the one or morethumbsticks comprising a head at a proximal end of the thumbstick, amonolithic shaft that is attached to the head and forms a single piecewith the head, the shaft defining at least a portion of an outer surfaceof the thumbstick and having a length that extends distally from anunderside of the head, the head having a greater width than the shaft,and a base attached to the shaft so that at least a portion of the shaftis interposed between the head and the base such that said at least aportion of the shaft is above the base such that the portion of theshaft is above the base, the shaft defining at least a portion of alength between the head and the base, the base having a dome portionwith a convex outer surface and a plug that extends under at least aportion of the dome portion, the plug having a bore that extends to adistal opening of the plug, the base component configured to couple viathe bore to an input device inside the controller body to therebyintegrate the thumbstick in the controller body so that movement of thethumbstick is translated via the input device into one or more inputcontrol signals, wherein at least a portion of the thumbstick isreplaceable to vary the length of the shaft to thereby vary a height ofthe thumbstick for a given head shape or size; and a plurality ofreplacement thumbsticks, each of the plurality of replacementthumbsticks configured to replace the one or more thumbsticks, at leasttwo of the plurality of replacement thumbsticks having a different shaftlength to thereby vary a height of said replacement thumbsticks for thesame head shape or size.
 15. The kit of claim 14, wherein the basecouples to an input device inside the controller body so that movementof the thumbstick is translated by a potentiometer into one or moreinput control signals via the input device.
 16. The kit of claim 14,wherein at least two of the plurality of replacement thumbsticks have adifferent color.
 17. The kit of claim 14, wherein at least two of theplurality of replacement thumb sticks have a shaft with the same lengthbut a different shaped head.
 18. The kit of claim 14, wherein at leasttwo of the plurality of replacement thumbsticks have a shaft with thesame length but a different sized head.
 19. The kit of claim 14, whereinat least two of the plurality of replacement thumbsticks have adifferent shaft length but the same shaped head.
 20. The kit of claim14, wherein at least two of the plurality of replacement thumbstickshave a different shaft length but the same sized head.